{"id":626852,"date":"2025-10-01T10:28:08","date_gmt":"2025-10-01T09:28:08","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/?p=626852"},"modified":"2025-11-04T17:06:45","modified_gmt":"2025-11-04T17:06:45","slug":"15-the-most-beautiful-places-to-visit-in-panama","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/destinations\/south-america\/15-the-most-beautiful-places-to-visit-in-panama\/","title":{"rendered":"18 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Panama"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>After traveling around Panama for three months, I was lucky enough to uncover its most breathtaking spots &#8211; from cool surf resorts and hidden secret islands to quirky mountain retreats and incredible dive sites. I&#8217;ve listed my favorite places&#8230;<\/p>\n<h2>1. San Blas Islands<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/San-Blas-Islands.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/San-Blas-Islands.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/San-Blas-Islands.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/San-Blas-Islands.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/San-Blas-Islands.jpg?resize=1000%2C750&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"750\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/San-Blas-Islands.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/San-Blas-Islands.jpg?resize=640%2C480&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/San-Blas-Islands.jpg?resize=768%2C576&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/San-Blas-Islands.jpg?resize=150%2C113&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-770156 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"San Blas Islands\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-688203\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/San-Blas-islands-Panama-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C664&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"San Blas islands Panama\" width=\"1000\" height=\"664\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/San-Blas-islands-Panama-1.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/San-Blas-islands-Panama-1.jpg?resize=640%2C425&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/San-Blas-islands-Panama-1.jpg?resize=768%2C510&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/San-Blas-islands-Panama-1.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/San-Blas-islands-Panama-1.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-688201\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/San-Blas-islands-Panama.jpg?resize=1000%2C563&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"San Blas islands Panama\" width=\"1000\" height=\"563\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/San-Blas-islands-Panama.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/San-Blas-islands-Panama.jpg?resize=640%2C360&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/San-Blas-islands-Panama.jpg?resize=768%2C432&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/San-Blas-islands-Panama.jpg?resize=150%2C84&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>I was completely in awe of these pristine idyllic islands! The scenery here consists of dazzling turquoise waters, soft white sandy beaches, and traditional thatched-roof huts &#8211; to me it felt like an escape from the modern world!&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col flex-grow\">\n<div class=\"min-h-8 text-message flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 whitespace-normal break-words text-start [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5\" dir=\"auto\" data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"bce16a38-489a-498f-892c-21d79cf5c890\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-4\">\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden first:pt-[3px]\">\n<div class=\"markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light\">\n<p>They&#8217;re nestled in the Caribbean Sea, off the northern coast of the mainland and they consist of over 365 islands and cays spanning around 100 square miles. The region is mostly inhabited by the indigenous Kuna people (who I found out when there) govern it autonomously.<\/p>\n<p>I flew to Panama City and I then took a 30 minute domestic flight to the islands and spending a blissful four days exploring the islands. My favourites were Achutupu which was filled with a rich Guna culture, the less commercialised Kagantupu, and Coco Blanco which was an awesome spot for snorkelling. I relaxed on pristine, crowd-free beaches, discovered traditional Indian crafts and heard captivating legends from the friendly locals!&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\"><b>Location: <\/b>off the northern coast of the country in the Guna Yala region.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/San+Blas+Islands\/@9.5702802,-78.9523592,11z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x8e54faf5fbdb641d:0x63414c65f5844d1c!8m2!3d9.5703192!4d-78.7872015!16zL20vMDlnZnQ5?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Best time to visit:<\/strong> January to April (the dry season)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My favorite highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Spending a night in an <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/pa\/san-blas-private-over-the-water-cabin-island-tour-meals-transportation.en-gb.html?aid=356980&amp;label=gog235jc-1FCAYosAFCCHNhbi1ibGFzSAlYA2hQiAEBmAEJuAEYyAEM2AEB6AEB-AECiAIBqAIEuAK4ooW7BsACAdICJDNiZTllZjc0LWEzNTUtNDA0NS1iMzU1LTVjZmQzMGNkOWYxNtgCBeACAQ&amp;sid=1bd5c8b3ac38f1ecd09344669cca8d90&amp;dest_id=5268&amp;dest_type=region&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=11&amp;hpos=11&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;srepoch=1734431084&amp;srpvid=b491492633870272&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Instagram-worthy over-water cabin<\/a> which had a very natural looking rustic-chic design which really fit in with the undeveloped vibe and restrictions of the islands.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<li>Going on a<a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.co.uk\/panama-l169156\/panama-city-4-day-island-hopping-san-blas-adventure-t541427\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> 4-day island hopping boat tour<\/a> which was a seriously dreamy experience &#8211; it was awesome to meet up with a local Kuna family (who were super friendly) and find out all about their very interesting way of life!&nbsp;<\/li>\n<li>Going snorkeling and seeing colorful coral reefs, brightly colored parrotfish which had hues of blues, greens, reds, pinks, oranges, and yellows!&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 class=\"p1\">2. Panama City<\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_778471\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-778471\" style=\"width: 950px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/My-IG-shot-of-Panama-City-skyline-taken-from-Eurostars-Panama-City.webp 960w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/My-IG-shot-of-Panama-City-skyline-taken-from-Eurostars-Panama-City.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/My-IG-shot-of-Panama-City-skyline-taken-from-Eurostars-Panama-City.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/My-IG-shot-of-Panama-City-skyline-taken-from-Eurostars-Panama-City.jpeg?resize=960%2C720&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"720\" width=\"960\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/My-IG-shot-of-Panama-City-skyline-taken-from-Eurostars-Panama-City.jpeg?w=960&amp;ssl=1 960w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/My-IG-shot-of-Panama-City-skyline-taken-from-Eurostars-Panama-City.jpeg?resize=640%2C480&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/My-IG-shot-of-Panama-City-skyline-taken-from-Eurostars-Panama-City.jpeg?resize=768%2C576&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-778471 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"My IG shot of Panama City skyline taken from Eurostars Panama City\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-778471\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My IG shot of Panama City skyline taken from Eurostars Panama City &#8211; from there the skyline looked incredible!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-688245\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Panama-City-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C695&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Panama City \" width=\"1000\" height=\"695\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Panama-City-1.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Panama-City-1.jpg?resize=640%2C445&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Panama-City-1.jpg?resize=768%2C534&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Panama-City-1.jpg?resize=150%2C104&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>I thought this was such a unique city! Although the capital city did have a very business-focused feel, I discovered many beautiful aspects such as the striking skyline of modern high-rises which sat side-by-side with the historic architecture of Casco Viejo, the scenic urban beaches that lined the Pacific entrance to the Panama Canal. The whole place also had a dynamic and very cosmopolitan feel!&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>It&#8217;s located at the Pacific entrance of the Panama Canal, centrally located within the country, and serves as its political, administrative, and cultural hub<\/p>\n<p>I spent four days here and explored the historic Casco Viejo district, visited the Panama Canal at the Miraflores Locks, sampled the nightlife in the lively Calle Uruguay area, enjoyed gorgeous panoramic views from Ancon Hill, went people-watching in Plaza Mayor and then recharged my batteries in its cosmopolitan restaurants and bars!<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\"><b>Location: <\/b>east-central part of the country&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Panama+City,+Panam%C3%A1+Province,+Panama\/@9.0809413,-80.0434122,10z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x8faca8f1dbe80363:0xaba25df1f042c10e!8m2!3d8.9823792!4d-79.5198696!16zL20vMGZyX2I?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Best time to visit: <\/strong>December to April (dry season)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Staying at the gorgeous and unique <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/pa\/la-compania-in-the-unbound-collection-by-hyatt.es.html?aid=356980&amp;label=gog235jc-1FCAsosAFCLmxhLWNvbXBhbmlhLWluLXRoZS11bmJvdW5kLWNvbGxlY3Rpb24tYnktaHlhdHRIClgDaFCIAQGYAQq4AQfIAQzYAQHoAQH4AQKIAgGoAgO4ApTVhbsGwAIB0gIkODg5YWM3NGItNGY0NC00OTk0LTljNzEtMWE3MzQ1YWIzMmFj2AIF4AIB&amp;sid=6881cf8c06f9194053bd5c8584cb2c6b&amp;age=0&amp;all_sr_blocks=800358604_340991782_2_42_0&amp;checkin=2025-03-13&amp;checkout=2025-03-14&amp;dest_id=-168008&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;highlighted_blocks=800358604_340991782_2_42_0&amp;hpos=1&amp;matching_block_id=800358604_340991782_2_42_0&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;sr_pri_blocks=800358604_340991782_2_42_0__52030&amp;srepoch=1734437530&amp;srpvid=adca55ca92c20122&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Hotel La Compania<\/a> &#8211; I absolutely adored its superb Casco Viejo location and the 17th-century Jesuit convent building it was housed in!&nbsp;<\/li>\n<li>Checking out the large Artisan Market which was filled with handcrafted products &#8211; I ended up buying organic home-made soaps, locally made pottery and colorful local artwork.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>3. Bocas del Toro<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-688209\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Bocas-del-Toro-2.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Bocas del Toro Panama\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Bocas-del-Toro-2.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Bocas-del-Toro-2.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Bocas-del-Toro-2.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Bocas-del-Toro-2.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Bocas-del-Toro-2.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Bocas-del-Toro-2.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-651389\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Bocas-del-Toro-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Bocas del Toro - beauty spots on Panama\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Bocas-del-Toro-1.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Bocas-del-Toro-1.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Bocas-del-Toro-1.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Bocas-del-Toro-1.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Bocas-del-Toro-1.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>This is a stunning archipelago filled with natural beauty! I found vividly painted Caribbean-style wooden buildings, tropical vegetation, and dreamy beaches ranging from serene white sands to dramatic, wave-swept shores.<\/p>\n<p>Both a popular backpacking and holiday destination, it&#8217;s located on the northeastern Caribbean coast of the mainland, near the Costa Rican border. Spanning about 250 square miles, it&#8217; made up of nine main islands and several smaller islets, teeming with rich biodiversity and a lively Caribbean culture!<\/p>\n<p>I stayed for four days after flying directly from Panama City (which took an hour), snorkeled in the clear waters at Coral Cay, tried surfing at Red Frog Beach (even though I wasn&#8217;t much good!), explored the rainforests of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tripadvisor.co.uk\/Attraction_Review-g304171-d3159923-Reviews-Parque_Nacional_Marino_Isla_Bastimentos-Bocas_Town_Isla_Colon_Bocas_del_Toro_Prov.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Isla Bastimentos National Marine Park<\/a>, and sampled the lively nightlife in Bocas Town.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\"><b>Location: <\/b>northwest, near the border with Costa Rica<\/span><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Bocas+del+Toro,+Bocas+del+Toro+Province,+Panama\/@9.3921039,-82.3623235,12z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x8fa61e9223b83735:0x837dbe5f03328672!8m2!3d9.3407804!4d-82.2408032!16zL20vMDVrXzlz?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Best time to visit: <\/strong>February and March (the driest months)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My personal highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Staying in a heavenly overwater bungalow at the eco-friendly <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/pa\/sol-bungalows.en-gb.html?aid=356930&amp;label=metagha-link-LUGB-hotel-6967024_dev-desktop_los-2_bw-85_dow-Wednesday_defdate-1_room-0_gstadt-2_rateid-public_aud-0_gacid-21410411210_mcid-10_ppa-0_clrid-0_ad-1_gstkid-0_checkin-20250312_ppt-_lp-2826_r-3737547729002226716&amp;sid=6881cf8c06f9194053bd5c8584cb2c6b&amp;all_sr_blocks=696702401_376676352_2_33_0&amp;checkin=2025-03-12&amp;checkout=2025-03-14&amp;dest_id=-157473&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;highlighted_blocks=696702401_376676352_2_33_0&amp;hpos=1&amp;matching_block_id=696702401_376676352_2_33_0&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;sr_pri_blocks=696702401_376676352_2_33_0__76679&amp;srepoch=1734437967&amp;srpvid=c9c256a6e0f30356&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Sol Bungalows<\/a> &#8211; waking up to the ocean views every morning from the private deck was a truly idyllic experience!&nbsp;<\/li>\n<li>Renting an E-bike (from Flying Pirates Bocas) and riding around Bocas Town before heading to the stunning Playa Bluff beach for sunset.<\/li>\n<li>Going snorkeling in Cayo Coral and seeing stingrays, crabs, colorful tropical fish, spectacular coral reefs and unique underwater gardens.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>4. Playa Venao<img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-626915 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Playa-Venao.jpg?resize=800%2C600&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Playa Venao Panama\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Playa-Venao.jpg?w=800&amp;ssl=1 800w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Playa-Venao.jpg?resize=640%2C480&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Playa-Venao.jpg?resize=768%2C576&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_778475\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-778475\" style=\"width: 1014px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/My-shot-of-Playa-Venao-beach.webp 1024w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/My-shot-of-Playa-Venao-beach.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/My-shot-of-Playa-Venao-beach.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/My-shot-of-Playa-Venao-beach.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/My-shot-of-Playa-Venao-beach.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"683\" width=\"1024\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/My-shot-of-Playa-Venao-beach.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/My-shot-of-Playa-Venao-beach.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/My-shot-of-Playa-Venao-beach.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/My-shot-of-Playa-Venao-beach.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" class=\"wp-image-778475 size-full sp-no-webp\" alt=\"My shot of Playa Venao beach\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"My shot of Playa Venao beach\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-778475\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My shot of Playa Venao beach &#8211; it felt very paradise-like with such a chilled but cool vibe!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<figure id=\"attachment_778473\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-778473\" style=\"width: 2038px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-778473\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/My-shot-of-Playa-Venao-views.jpg?resize=1200%2C800&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"My shot of Playa Venao views\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/My-shot-of-Playa-Venao-views.jpg?w=2048&amp;ssl=1 2048w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/My-shot-of-Playa-Venao-views.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/My-shot-of-Playa-Venao-views.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/My-shot-of-Playa-Venao-views.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/My-shot-of-Playa-Venao-views.jpg?resize=1536%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-778473\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My shot of Playa Venao views &#8211; they were seriously dreamy!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>I was a big fan of this dreamy, laid-back gem! I found an expansive crescent-shaped beach with golden sands surrounded by tropical-forest hillsides, and dotted with low-rise, rustic buildings. I also loved its surf-focused and boho, eco-friendly vibe.<\/p>\n<p>It&#8217;s a quaint beach community nestled on the Pacific coast of Panama&#8217;s Azuero Peninsula in the southeastern part of the country, renowned for its excellent surfing conditions, lively beach bars, and beachfront restaurants.<\/p>\n<p>I stayed for two weeks and didn&#8217;t get bored! I spent it kicking back, sunbathing on the long, wide sandy beach, taking a swim in the warm sea, dining at the funky beach restaurants (many had DJs too!) and sipping on cocktails in the open-air bars while gazing at the waves!<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\"><b>Location: <\/b>southern coast on the Azuero Peninsula&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Playa+Venao\/@7.4287221,-80.206613,15z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x8fb26405796ea2bb:0xb183cca7588de854!8m2!3d7.432407!4d-80.1955268!16s%2Fg%2F1thctdcl?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Best time to visit:<\/strong> end of December to middle April (the dry season)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em><strong>My highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Staying at the wow-inducing <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/pa\/alaya-panama.en-gb.html?aid=356980&amp;label=gog235jc-1FCAsosAFCDGFsYXlhLXBhbmFtYUgJWANoUIgBAZgBCbgBB8gBDNgBAegBAfgBAogCAagCA7gCgsiFuwbAAgHSAiQ1ZWZlMDM1Zi01YzZkLTQ0ZWQtOWVlOC04YjYwZTlkZDlmYmbYAgXgAgE&amp;sid=6881cf8c06f9194053bd5c8584cb2c6b&amp;all_sr_blocks=916160103_381508534_4_0_0&amp;checkin=2025-03-13&amp;checkout=2025-03-14&amp;dest_id=-164907&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;highlighted_blocks=916160103_381508534_4_0_0&amp;hpos=1&amp;matching_block_id=916160103_381508534_4_0_0&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;sr_pri_blocks=916160103_381508534_4_0_0__17899&amp;srepoch=1734435913&amp;srpvid=9fc2528135ea04a5&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Alaya Yoga &amp; Surf &amp; Retreat<\/a> &#8211; I loved the Insta-worthy pods, the incredible views, the dreamy private hot tub and the zen-like yoga classes!<\/li>\n<li>Enjoying a melon cocktail while watching the sunset at the popular Selina&#8217;s Beach Bar &#8211; there were also some lively beach parties (complete with a DJ) after dark too!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>5. Casco Viejo<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-688211\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Casco-Viejo-Panama.jpg?resize=1000%2C665&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Casco Viejo Panama\" width=\"1000\" height=\"665\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Casco-Viejo-Panama.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Casco-Viejo-Panama.jpg?resize=640%2C426&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Casco-Viejo-Panama.jpg?resize=768%2C511&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Casco-Viejo-Panama.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Casco-Viejo-Panama.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Casco-Viejo-Panama.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/anafreitas\/5426885468\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-626920 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Casco-Viejo.jpg?resize=1000%2C562&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Casco Viejo - best places to visit in Panama\" width=\"1000\" height=\"562\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Casco-Viejo.jpg?resize=1000%2C562&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Casco-Viejo.jpg?resize=640%2C359&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Casco-Viejo.jpg?resize=768%2C431&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Casco-Viejo.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>This is a attractive historic area in Panama City! I thought it was both pretty and charming with cobblestone streets lined with colorful colonial buildings and easy-on-the-eye plazas. I loved its mix old-world charm and modern energy and lively street markets, trendy cafes, and buzzing nightlife.<\/p>\n<p>Spanning an area of 0.8 square miles, it&#8217;s an <a href=\"https:\/\/whc.unesco.org\/en\/list\/790\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">UNESCO World Heritage Site<\/a>, overlooking the Pacific Ocean from a small peninsula in Panama City, southwest of the modern downtown area. It was founded in 1519 as the first European settlement on the Pacific coast, it rapidly evolved into a major trading hub in the Americas.<\/p>\n<p>I stayed here for two days at the historic colonial boutique <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/pa\/american-trade.en-gb.html?aid=1135786&amp;label=cascoviejo-z1LQ0XZ_tt_tNXVIq1vfewS590575314634%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap1%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap%3Aneg%3Afi%3Atikwd-14064657699%3Alp9046549%3Ali%3Adec%3Adm%3Appccp%3DUmFuZG9tSVYkc2RlIyh9YcpDr58xwogAfuBu-XwhWKk&amp;sid=49e6435012d12f41c1293a096092c81f&amp;dest_id=6547&amp;dest_type=district&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=7&amp;hpos=7&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;srepoch=1754315005&amp;srpvid=440f603481cb03a4&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">American Trade Hotel<\/a> and explored the colorful colonial buildings, visited the historic San Jos\u00e9 church, sipped on Pineapple Basil Daiquiris cocktails in the rooftop bars while gazing at the skyline (my favorite was the cool Casa Casco), and strolled through charming Plaza de la Independencia.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\"><b>Location: <\/b>Panama City<\/span><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/San+Felipe,+Panama+City,+Panam%C3%A1+Province,+Panama\/@8.9523146,-79.5535985,15z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x8facaf34d057db0d:0xc8f8020e0c973cd0!8m2!3d8.9531326!4d-79.5357556!16s%2Fg%2F1hh_r9f0t?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Best time to visit: <\/strong>December to April (the dry season)&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My personal highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Sipping on a cup of coffee made from the famous locally grown geisha beans at the trendy Nomada Eatery &#8211; I also loved the funky art displayed on the walls.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>6. Pearl Islands<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Pearl-Islands.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Pearl-Islands.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Pearl-Islands.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Pearl-Islands.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Pearl-Islands.jpg?resize=1000%2C568&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"568\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Pearl-Islands.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Pearl-Islands.jpg?resize=640%2C364&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Pearl-Islands.jpg?resize=768%2C436&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Pearl-Islands.jpg?resize=150%2C85&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-770159 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Pearl Islands Panama\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-688215\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Pearl-Islands-Panama.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Pearl Islands Panama\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Pearl-Islands-Panama.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Pearl-Islands-Panama.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Pearl-Islands-Panama.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Pearl-Islands-Panama.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Pearl-Islands-Panama.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Pearl-Islands-Panama.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>This pristine archipelago once served as the set for the <em>Survivor<\/em> (the reality show)! Here I found powdery white-sand beaches, gorgeous turquoise waters, and charming seaside villas in a tropical environment with a tranquil and exclusive vibe!&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Consisting of 200 islands and islets spanning around 250 square miles, they&#8217;re nestled in the Pacific Ocean, around 30 miles off the coast. They&#8217;re a popular holiday destination with upscale resorts, and activities on offer such as snorkeling, diving, and whale watching.<\/p>\n<p>I took the 20-minute flight from Panama City and stayed for a week at the dreamy <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/pa\/villa-romantica.en-gb.html?aid=356980&amp;label=gog235jc-10CAYosAFCGmFyY2hpcGllbGFnby1kZS1sYXMtcGVybGFzSAlYA2hQiAEBmAEzuAEHyAEM2AED6AEB-AEBiAIBqAIBuALr9cLEBsACAdICJGE5NWM5MmE0LTk0NzMtNDFmMS1hNmVmLWJmYmE3ZjFlZDljN9gCAeACAQ&amp;sid=49e6435012d12f41c1293a096092c81f&amp;dest_id=14466&amp;dest_type=region&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;hpos=1&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;srepoch=1754315516&amp;srpvid=725b6177f7a90570&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Mar Y Oro Resort<\/a> and snorkeled and dived the spectacular coral reefs, relaxed on my favorite secluded beach Isla Contadora, and discovered the lush forests and marine life around Isla del Rey.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\"><b>Location:<\/b>off the Pacific coast in the south<\/span><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Pearl+Islands\/@8.4317431,-79.2815924,10z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x8fac227cf37a5971:0x7848c791d49a16a2!8m2!3d8.4318812!4d-78.951237!16zL20vMDF3OXFi?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Best time to visit: <\/strong>December to April (the dry season)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My personal highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Dining at the laid back <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tripadvisor.co.uk\/Restaurant_Review-g298429-d2405780-Reviews-Restaurante_Gerald_s-Contadora_Island_Pearl_Islands_Panama_Province.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Restaurante Gerald&#8217;s<\/a> &#8211; on the paradise-like Contadora Island &#8211; I especially loved the Mango Mojito and the delicious tropical salad Panama style which came with mixed greens, herbs and slices of mango, pineapple, and papaya.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>7. Boquete<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-688227\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Boquete-Panama.jpg?resize=1000%2C564&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Boquete Panama\" width=\"1000\" height=\"564\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Boquete-Panama.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Boquete-Panama.jpg?resize=640%2C361&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Boquete-Panama.jpg?resize=768%2C433&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Boquete-Panama.jpg?resize=150%2C85&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-688229\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Boquete-Panama-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Boquete - places to visit in Panama\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Boquete-Panama-1.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Boquete-Panama-1.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Boquete-Panama-1.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Boquete-Panama-1.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Boquete-Panama-1.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Boquete-Panama-1.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>This is a very popular destination! I have to admit I was charmed by its tranquil and small town vibe as well as the gorgeous scenery which consisted of mountainous terrain cloaked in emerald-green coffee plantations and cloud forests and dotted with pretty alpine-style architecture.<\/p>\n<div class=\"group\/conversation-turn relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn\">\n<div class=\"flex-col gap-1 md:gap-3\">\n<div class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col flex-grow\">\n<div class=\"min-h-8 text-message flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 whitespace-normal break-words text-start [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5\" dir=\"auto\" data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"35d6d5d2-e2db-4a20-a0a6-70e988f42927\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-4\">\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden first:pt-[3px]\">\n<div class=\"markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light\">\n<p>It&#8217;s a highland town nestled in western Panama&#8217;s Chiriqu\u00ed Province, near the Costa Rican border and at the foot of the Bar\u00fa Volcano. It has a reputation for having a cool climate, lush landscapes, world-class coffee plantations, and being a destination for outdoor activities like hiking, bird watching, and the annual Flower and Coffee Festival.<\/p>\n<p>I drove six hours from Panama City and stayed for four days in a guest house hiking Bar\u00fa Volcano which had seriously stunning views, touring world-class coffee plantations, going birdwatching and spotting quetzals, going zip-lining through the cloud forest, and exploring the eerie, abandoned Palacio Municipal building.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\"><b>Location: <\/b>Chiriqu\u00ed Province, west<\/span><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Boquete,+Chiriqu%C3%AD+Province,+Panama\/@8.7689208,-82.6150264,12z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x8fa5ecdf0bce8359:0xc098303ddfb98e74!8m2!3d8.7772318!4d-82.4481944!16zL20vMGdzNDRj?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Best time to visit: <\/strong>December to April (dry season)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My personal highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Staying at the super-cute 4-star <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/pa\/palo-alto.en-gb.html?aid=356980&amp;label=gog235jc-1FCAsosAFCCXBhbG8tYWx0b0gJWANoUIgBAZgBCbgBB8gBDNgBAegBAfgBAogCAagCA7gChfnJuwbAAgHSAiQ3ZmZjMTI0Yi1iZmU3LTQzMzctOGYzMS0yOTcwZDliNjQ3NjDYAgXgAgE&amp;sid=f04a0648f4db156cc863e69edfb60614&amp;dest_id=-157572&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;hpos=1&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;srepoch=1735556236&amp;srpvid=13ca4d03cd9700e2&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Inn at Palo Alto<\/a> &#8211; I loved its location along the banks of the Palo Alto River, its lush green gardens, the handcrafted woodwork decor, the cloud forest views and the eucalyptus-scented spa, pool and jacuzzi, it was hard to leave!&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>8. Perro Chico Island<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Isla-Perro.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Isla-Perro.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Isla-Perro.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Isla-Perro.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Isla-Perro.jpg?resize=1000%2C563&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"563\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Isla-Perro.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Isla-Perro.jpg?resize=640%2C360&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Isla-Perro.jpg?resize=768%2C432&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Isla-Perro.jpg?resize=150%2C84&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-770173 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Isla Perro\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-688199\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Isla-Perro-Beach-Panama.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Isla Perro Beach Panama\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Isla-Perro-Beach-Panama.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Isla-Perro-Beach-Panama.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Isla-Perro-Beach-Panama.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Isla-Perro-Beach-Panama.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Isla-Perro-Beach-Panama.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Isla-Perro-Beach-Panama.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This is part of the San Blas Islands but I personally think it deserves a special mention! It&#8217;s a paradise-like spot with divine white-sand beaches, swaying palm trees, glistening turquoise waters teeming with marine life, and cute rustic thatched huts! I loved the cool and unique atmosphere here &#8211; to me it felt like staying overnight at a festival!&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Literally meaning &#8220;Dog Island&#8221; it&#8217;s located off the Caribbean coast of the mainland in the northeastern part of the country.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>I took a day trip boat tour there from the port of Carti island and spent a really wonderful day dining on coconut rice and fried plantains in the island&#8217;s cool little restaurant and bar, trying all the activities on offer (both water and land based!), relaxing in my hammocks and hanging out with the other travelers on the in the evenings! It was pure bliss!<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\"><b>Location: <\/b><span tabindex=\"0\" role=\"tooltip\"><span class=\"c5aZPb\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\" data-enable-toggle-animation=\"true\" data-extra-container-classes=\"ZLo7Eb\" data-hover-hide-delay=\"1000\" data-hover-open-delay=\"500\" data-send-open-event=\"true\" data-theme=\"0\" data-width=\"250\" data-ved=\"2ahUKEwjPpYKEuIaIAxUeQUEAHT8jH_8QmpgGegQIHBAD\"><span class=\"JPfdse\" data-bubble-link=\"\" data-segment-text=\"San Blas\">San Blas, east of the country<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Isla+Perro+-+Barco+Hundido\/@9.5583378,-78.8786227,17z\/data=!4m9!3m8!1s0x8e54e5711a0b3d11:0xacfdbb0c7657e41f!5m2!4m1!1i2!8m2!3d9.5583378!4d-78.8760424!16s%2Fg%2F11c317gk5y?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Best time to visit:<\/strong> December to April (dry season)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My favorite highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Soaking up the festive atmosphere in the evening &#8211; we all sat round beach bonfires drinking cocktails from coconuts!<\/li>\n<li>Having a fun game of volleyball with fellow travelers (I wasn&#8217;t much good, though, sadly)!&nbsp;<\/li>\n<li>Discovering the island&#8217;s shipwreck located just offshore when snorkeling &#8211; the sunken army gunboat was surrounded by huge manta rays and even a swordfish. I even saw the boat&#8217;s sunken rusty bow peeking above the water at low tide!&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>9. Gulf of Chiriqu\u00ed<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Gulf-of-Chiriqui.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Gulf-of-Chiriqui.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Gulf-of-Chiriqui.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Gulf-of-Chiriqui.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Gulf-of-Chiriqui.jpg?resize=1000%2C750&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"750\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Gulf-of-Chiriqui.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Gulf-of-Chiriqui.jpg?resize=640%2C480&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Gulf-of-Chiriqui.jpg?resize=768%2C576&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Gulf-of-Chiriqui.jpg?resize=150%2C113&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-770161 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Gulf of Chiriqu\u00ed\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Gulf-of-Chiriqui-Sunset.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Gulf-of-Chiriqui-Sunset.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Gulf-of-Chiriqui-Sunset.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Gulf-of-Chiriqui-Sunset.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Gulf-of-Chiriqui-Sunset.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Gulf-of-Chiriqui-Sunset.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Gulf-of-Chiriqui-Sunset.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Gulf-of-Chiriqui-Sunset.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Gulf-of-Chiriqui-Sunset.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-770163 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Gulf of Chiriqu\u00ed Beach Sunset\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p>This large bay located off the Pacific coast is just like a paradise! I found out it was a real beauty spot with a mix of pristine, secluded white and volcanic sand beaches, lush, untouched islands, and quaint coastal villages with rustic architecture, all set against a backdrop of vibrant marine ecosystems and dramatic tropical landscapes. I found it the perfect place to disconnect and immerse myself in pristine nature!<\/p>\n<p>It lies south of Chiriqu\u00ed, stretching from the <a href=\"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/destinations\/south-america\/10-beautiful-places-visit-costa-rica\/\">Costa Rican<\/a> border in the west to the Azuero Peninsula in the east, right on the western Pacific coast.<\/p>\n<p>I found that it included several protected areas including the a UNESCO World Heritage site, <a href=\"https:\/\/whc.unesco.org\/en\/list\/1138\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Coiba National Park<\/a>, and a number of islands (with the city of David serving as a primary access point). It&#8217;s home to incredible diving and snorkeling I saw mostly eco-tourists and adventure seekers here and accommodation options ranged from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.expedia.co.uk\/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-01-12&amp;endDate=2025-01-13&amp;regionId=6051578&amp;adults=2&amp;sort=RECOMMENDED&amp;openPlayBack=true&amp;destination=Chiriqui%2C%20Chiriqu%C3%AD%20Province%2C%20Panama&amp;isInvalidatedDate=false&amp;theme=&amp;userIntent=&amp;semdtl=&amp;useRewards=false\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">eco-lodges<\/a> to boutique hotels.<\/p>\n<p>I took a boat tour from Boca Chica and stayed for a week at the stunningly located <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/pa\/seagullcove-lodge.en-gb.html?aid=356980&amp;label=gog235jc-1FCAsosAFCCXBhbG8tYWx0b0gJWANoUIgBAZgBCbgBB8gBDNgBAegBAfgBAogCAagCA7gChfnJuwbAAgHSAiQ3ZmZjMTI0Yi1iZmU3LTQzMzctOGYzMS0yOTcwZDliNjQ3NjDYAgXgAgE&amp;sid=548946cec11ce8170461ffa9b7f07f10&amp;all_sr_blocks=73382302_352089028_2_1_0&amp;checkin=2025-08-12&amp;checkout=2025-08-13&amp;dest_id=-157369&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=2&amp;highlighted_blocks=73382302_352089028_2_1_0&amp;hpos=2&amp;matching_block_id=73382302_352089028_2_1_0&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;sr_pri_blocks=73382302_352089028_2_1_0__16335&amp;srepoch=1754316668&amp;srpvid=b4b963baee800740&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Seagull Cove Resort<\/a> and as well as snorkeling and soaking up the gorgeous surroundings I had an awesome experience seeing super-cute sea turtles nesting on a beach!<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\"><b>Location: <\/b>west, near the border of Costa Rica<\/span><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Gulf+of+Chiriqu%C3%AD\/@8.1020666,-82.4263699,12z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x8fa567a52f46ab39:0xa570d5e2dbd7c307!8m2!3d8.0733624!4d-82.3560389!16s%2Fm%2F02pz97x?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Best time to visit: <\/strong>December to April (dry season)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My favorite highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Snorkeling around Granito de Oro Island and seeing manta rays, reef sharks, green turtles and tropical fish circle the brightly colored coral reefs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>10. Soberania National Park<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-688225\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Soberania-National-Park-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C620&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Soberania National Park Panama\" width=\"1000\" height=\"620\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Soberania-National-Park-1.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Soberania-National-Park-1.jpg?resize=640%2C397&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Soberania-National-Park-1.jpg?resize=768%2C476&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Soberania-National-Park-1.jpg?resize=150%2C93&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-688223\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Soberania-National-Park.jpg?resize=1000%2C727&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Soberania National Park Panama\" width=\"1000\" height=\"727\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Soberania-National-Park.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Soberania-National-Park.jpg?resize=640%2C465&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Soberania-National-Park.jpg?resize=768%2C558&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Soberania-National-Park.jpg?resize=150%2C109&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>This is a very accessible protected area! It&#8217;s filled with green rainforests, the historic Camino de Cruces hiking trail and a tranquil, adventurous vibe. There are beaches here but there was a variety of stunning natural landscapes and well-preserved colonial-era structures.<\/p>\n<p>It&#8217;s located in the central part of the country, only around 25 kilometers north of Panama City. Spanning around 55,000 acres, it stretches along the eastern shore of the Panama Canal, spanning parts of both Panama and Col\u00f3n provinces. I found accommodation here included eco-lodges, rainforest resorts, basic guesthouses, and the unique <a href=\"https:\/\/canopytower.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Canopy Tower<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Soberan\u00eda National Park, covering 55,000 acres along the Panama Canal in central Panama, is a biodiverse rainforest with over 500 bird species, numerous hiking trails including the renowned Pipeline Road, and it&#8217;s an important site for both ecological research and birdwatching.<\/p>\n<p>I drove 45 minutes from the capital on a day trip and paid the $5 entrance fee. I went wildlife spotting on a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/monkey-island-panama-l32826\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Monkey Island boat tour<\/a>, saw incredible panoramic views from the <a href=\"https:\/\/pipelineroad.org\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rainforest Discovery Center&#8217;s observation tower<\/a>, and explored the rainforest on the Plantation Trail.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\"><b>Location: <\/b>central part of the mainland<\/span><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Parque+Nacional+Soberan%C3%ADa\/@9.0742977,-79.6623856,17z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x8faca8ff72eba9c7:0x29cadd5869d6440e!8m2!3d9.0742977!4d-79.6598053!16s%2Fm%2F03qhczn?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Best time to visit: <\/strong>December to April (dry season)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My favorite highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Going for a swim in the cooling natural pools of the El Charco Trail known as &#8220;El Charco,&#8221; and then going for a picnic by the pools before heading back.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>11. Santa Catalina<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Santa-Catalina-Coastlne.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Santa-Catalina-Coastlne.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Santa-Catalina-Coastlne.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Santa-Catalina-Coastlne.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Santa-Catalina-Coastlne.jpg?resize=1000%2C750&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"750\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Santa-Catalina-Coastlne.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Santa-Catalina-Coastlne.jpg?resize=640%2C480&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Santa-Catalina-Coastlne.jpg?resize=768%2C576&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Santa-Catalina-Coastlne.jpg?resize=150%2C113&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-770165 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Santa Catalina\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Santa-Catalina-in-Panama.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Santa-Catalina-in-Panama.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Santa-Catalina-in-Panama.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Santa-Catalina-in-Panama.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Santa-Catalina-in-Panama.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Santa-Catalina-in-Panama.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Santa-Catalina-in-Panama.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Santa-Catalina-in-Panama.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Santa-Catalina-in-Panama.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-770166 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Santa Catalina in Panama\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p>This small, remote coastal town is known as being the best surfing destinations in the country! It&#8217;s also a gorgeous, tranquil spot with pristine black and white sand beaches, clear waters with mighty waves up to 10 meters high, unique jungle surroundings, and charming rustic buildings.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>It&#8217;s nestled on the Pacific coast of Panama in Veraguas Province, around 90 kilometers southwest of Santiago, near the entrance to Coiba National Park. I saw that it mostly attracted surfers, backpackers, divers and snorkelers and accommodation included budget-friendly hostels, rustic surf camps, eco-lodges, mid-range guesthouses, and boutique hotels.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>I drove 4 hours from Boquete and kicked back for a week at the boho-style 4-star retreat at the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/pa\/villa-coco.en-gb.html?aid=323684&amp;label=santa-catalina-island-u8ezLJxZ7CDLu5R9fURV7gS394235416034%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap1%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap%3Aneg%3Afi%3Atikwd-3276428597%3Alp9046549%3Ali%3Adec%3Adm%3Appccp%3DUmFuZG9tSVYkc2RlIyh9Ybu3g3JQEN-y0ZaHyBRePiU&amp;sid=49e6435012d12f41c1293a096092c81f&amp;dest_id=-170200&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=3&amp;hpos=3&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;srepoch=1754316990&amp;srpvid=a6f16458183d080f&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;#map_closed\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Villa Coco<\/a> and went snorkeling and diving in Coiba National Park, went kayaking, and even had time to explore the jungle trails.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\"><b>Location: <\/b>Veraguas Province, south<\/span><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Santa+Catalina,+Veraguas+Province,+Panama\/@7.6392386,-81.3376435,13z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x8fb1d93751e3a455:0x97cd3d6feee1163d!8m2!3d7.639245!4d-81.263908!16s%2Fg%2F1tlwgq04?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Best time to visit: <\/strong>December to April (dry season)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Watching the surfers tackle the hugely impressive swells at La Punta Beach was exhilarating &#8211; I perched on the rocky edge near the palm-dotted point and sat for a whole hour!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>12. Isla Taboga<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Isla-Taboga.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Isla-Taboga.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Isla-Taboga.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Isla-Taboga.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Isla-Taboga.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Isla-Taboga.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Isla-Taboga.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Isla-Taboga.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Isla-Taboga.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-770168 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Isla Taboga\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-688233\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Isla-Taboga-Panama.jpg?resize=1000%2C751&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Isla Taboga Panama\" width=\"1000\" height=\"751\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Isla-Taboga-Panama.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Isla-Taboga-Panama.jpg?resize=640%2C481&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Isla-Taboga-Panama.jpg?resize=768%2C577&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Isla-Taboga-Panama.jpg?resize=150%2C113&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>This small volcanic island is also known as the &#8220;Island of Flowers!&#8221; I personally thought it was a dreamy place with tropical greenery, colorful colonial buildings, and pristine sandy beaches from secluded coves to expansive shores.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div class=\"group\/conversation-turn relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn\">\n<div class=\"flex-col gap-1 md:gap-3\">\n<div class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col flex-grow\">\n<div class=\"min-h-8 text-message flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 whitespace-normal break-words text-start [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5\" dir=\"auto\" data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"0e6edc81-ec33-47f0-9627-1d68cc20e73a\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-4\">\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden first:pt-[3px]\">\n<div class=\"markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light\">\n<p>It&#8217;s located in the Gulf of Panama, only around 20 kilometers south of Panama City and I found it was easily accessible by a short ferry ride from the Amador Causeway.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>I took a day trip here by taking the 30 minute ferry ride from the Amador Causeway in Panama City and that was enough time to explore the historic San Pedro Church, hike up Cerro de la Cruz (which had superb panoramic views), relax on the beaches and spot brown pelicans!<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\"><b>Location:<\/b> 12 miles off the coast of Panama City<\/span><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Taboga+Island\/@8.7895304,-79.5767323,14z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x8facb0a8a3ba8543:0xa0ef3fa87d7f970c!8m2!3d8.7871912!4d-79.5575342!16zL20vMDY2a19j?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Best time to visit: <\/strong>December to April (dry season)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Strolling through the quiet Spanish-settled village of San Pedro &#8211; I loved the pretty colorful colonial-style houses, meeting the friendly locals and browsing the hand crafted wood carvings, textiles and local artwork.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>13. El Valle de Ant\u00f3n<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/El-Valle-de-Anton.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/El-Valle-de-Anton.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/El-Valle-de-Anton.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/El-Valle-de-Anton.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/El-Valle-de-Anton.jpg?resize=1000%2C668&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"668\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/El-Valle-de-Anton.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/El-Valle-de-Anton.jpg?resize=640%2C428&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/El-Valle-de-Anton.jpg?resize=768%2C513&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/El-Valle-de-Anton.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-770154 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"El Valle de Ant\u00f3n\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/El-Valle-de-Anton-1.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/El-Valle-de-Anton-1.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/El-Valle-de-Anton-1.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/El-Valle-de-Anton-1.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/El-Valle-de-Anton-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C668&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"668\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/El-Valle-de-Anton-1.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/El-Valle-de-Anton-1.jpg?resize=640%2C428&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/El-Valle-de-Anton-1.jpg?resize=768%2C513&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/El-Valle-de-Anton-1.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-770157 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"El Valle de Ant\u00f3n\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p>This is picturesque town uniquely nestled in the crater of an extinct volcano! It&#8217;s filled with charming, rustic buildings surrounded by verdant volcanic mountains, cascading waterfalls, and near serene, unspoiled beaches. I loved the peaceful, small-town where time seemed to slow.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>It&#8217;s located in the Cocl\u00e9 Province of Panama, around 75 miles west of Panama City. It sits at an elevation of 600 meters and has a cool climate, rich biodiversity, and attractions such as thermal springs, waterfalls and healing mud pools with a unique mineral composition.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>I took the 3 hour bus ride from Panama City and stayed for four days at the nearby stunning hacienda-style <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/pa\/la-compania-del-valle.en-gb.html?aid=303948&amp;label=el-valle-OXdj8fn_n8yitsRTWqaaUwS625988762385%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap1%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap%3Aneg%3Afi%3Atikwd-326515024748%3Alp9046549%3Ali%3Adec%3Adm%3Appccp%3DUmFuZG9tSVYkc2RlIyh9YcpDr58xwogAl7TVLldpQmM&amp;sid=49e6435012d12f41c1293a096092c81f&amp;dest_id=-161613&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=5&amp;hpos=5&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;srepoch=1754317304&amp;srpvid=a6f164c02af50867&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Hotel La Compania Del Valle<\/a>. I went hiking the trails to Cerro Gaital and India Dormida, visiting the thermal springs and waterfalls (my favourite was the Chorro El Macho) exploring the interesting artisan market, and spotting the rare golden frog which resides here!<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\"><b>Location: <\/b>centre of the country, Cocl\u00e9 Province.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Anton+Valley,+Cocl%C3%A9+Province,+Panama\/@8.6200554,-80.177108,13z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x8fac58c0e8bc6925:0xaa27efb834833e4c!8m2!3d8.6097836!4d-80.1316927!16s%2Fm%2F05p56qc?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Best time to visit: <\/strong>December to April (the dry season)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Crossing the high suspension bridge through the rainforest and then hiking 30 minutes along the trail to reach the stunning El Macho Waterfall.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<li>Visiting the lively farmer&#8217;s market (which was open seven days a week) and sampling the local food and produce &#8211; I especially loved the thin deep-fried plantains and trying a passion fruit chicha (a traditional Panamanian beverage).&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>14. Sunset Coast, Azuero Peninsula<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-688186\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Azuero-Peninsula-Sunset-Coast.jpg?resize=1000%2C590&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Azuero Peninsula Sunset Coast\" width=\"1000\" height=\"590\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Azuero-Peninsula-Sunset-Coast.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Azuero-Peninsula-Sunset-Coast.jpg?resize=640%2C378&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Azuero-Peninsula-Sunset-Coast.jpg?resize=768%2C453&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Azuero-Peninsula-Sunset-Coast.jpg?resize=150%2C89&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-688184\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Sunset-Coast-Panama.jpg?resize=1000%2C750&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Sunset Coast Panama\" width=\"1000\" height=\"750\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Sunset-Coast-Panama.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Sunset-Coast-Panama.jpg?resize=640%2C480&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Sunset-Coast-Panama.jpg?resize=768%2C576&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Sunset-Coast-Panama.jpg?resize=150%2C113&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>This stretch of coastline is home to seriously beautiful sunsets! It&#8217;s a unspoiled and strikingly stunning spot where I found traditional Spanish colonial architecture, quaint fishing villages, pristine beaches and a rich biodiversity, including dry forests and coastal mangroves. The vibe here feels remote and I was take in by its laid-back, boho vibe.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>It spans 80 to 100 kilometers along the western side of the Azuero Peninsula in the southern part of the country, facing the Pacific Ocean. It&#8217;s a popular place for eco-tourists and those and cultural immersion!&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>I drove 4 hours from Panama City and spent a very laid-back two weeks watching surfing at Playa Venao, exploring the traditional villages of Ca\u00f1as, Mariato and then stayed in the laid-back gem <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/pa\/casa-lajagua.en-gb.html?aid=1135786&amp;label=pedasi-_ChAFT80k%2AlkEe4bdYVjaAS629347177890%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap1%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap%3Aneg%3Afi%3Atikwd-137537306161%3Alp9046549%3Ali%3Adec%3Adm%3Appccp%3DUmFuZG9tSVYkc2RlIyh9YcpDr58xwogAfuBu-XwhWKk&amp;sid=49e6435012d12f41c1293a096092c81f&amp;dest_id=13718&amp;dest_type=region&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=10&amp;hpos=10&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;srepoch=1754317524&amp;srpvid=17e265567b2c0494&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Casa Lajagua<\/a> for a week in Pedas\u00ed. I hiked through dry forests and mangroves, and enjoyed breathtaking sunsets over the unspoilt beaches!&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\"><b>Location:<\/b> south<\/span><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Azuero+Peninsula\/@7.6666667,-81.6380208,9z\/data=!4m10!1m2!2m1!1sSunset+Coast,+Azuero+Peninsula!3m6!1s0x8fb209cc186ad3df:0xfdee7c5117c88b18!8m2!3d7.6666667!4d-80.5833333!15sCh5TdW5zZXQgQ29hc3QsIEF6dWVybyBQZW5pbnN1bGFaHyIdc3Vuc2V0IGNvYXN0IGF6dWVybyBwZW5pbnN1bGGSAQlwZW5pbnN1bGHgAQA!16zL20vMGczXzV5?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Best time to visit: <\/strong>December to April (dry season)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-huuid=\"2603978075221591156\">R<\/span><span data-huuid=\"2603978075221590949\">enting a TORQ Funboard from Shokogi Rentals and having awesome fun on the waves!&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>15. Los Cangilones<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-688188\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Los-Cangilones-Panama.jpg?resize=1000%2C666&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Los Cangilones Panama\" width=\"1000\" height=\"666\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Los-Cangilones-Panama.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Los-Cangilones-Panama.jpg?resize=640%2C426&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Los-Cangilones-Panama.jpg?resize=768%2C511&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Los-Cangilones-Panama.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Los-Cangilones-Panama.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Los-Cangilones-Panama.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-688189\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Punta-Chame-Panama.jpg?resize=1000%2C665&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Punta Chame Panama\" width=\"1000\" height=\"665\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Punta-Chame-Panama.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Punta-Chame-Panama.jpg?resize=640%2C426&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Punta-Chame-Panama.jpg?resize=768%2C511&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Punta-Chame-Panama.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Punta-Chame-Panama.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Punta-Chame-Panama.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>This fun natural volcanic rock canyon made a great day trip from Panama City! When I got there, I found a dramatic volcanic rock canyon, very clear turquoise waters which attracted adventurous swimmers, and smooth stone ledges which made perfect places for relaxing.<\/p>\n<p>It&#8217;s located in Chiriqu\u00ed Province of Panama, near the town of Gualaca in the western part of the country.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>I drove here from Boquete, which took just 40 minutes. After picking up some picnic supplies at the local supermarket, it was only a 15-minute walk along a slightly rugged but well-marked trail to the canyon. I spent the afternoon swimming, relaxing, and exploring the striking canyon.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\"><b>Location: <\/b>Gualaca&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Los+Cangilones+de+Gualaca\/@8.543489,-82.3025302,17z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x8fa5867f1645568d:0xb8147e7d6e25cf56!8m2!3d8.543489!4d-82.2999499!16s%2Fg%2F11b8_22ts6?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Best time to visit:<\/strong> December to April (the dry season)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My favorite highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Watching the braver visitors jump off the rocks (which ranged from 6 to 15 feet!) into the aqua-marine waters below!<\/li>\n<li>Swimming through the cool and refreshing canyon waters which stretched across 40 meters.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>16. Punta Chame<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Punta-Chame.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Punta-Chame.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Punta-Chame.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Punta-Chame.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Punta-Chame.jpg?resize=1000%2C563&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"563\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Punta-Chame.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Punta-Chame.jpg?resize=640%2C360&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Punta-Chame.jpg?resize=768%2C432&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Punta-Chame.jpg?resize=150%2C84&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-770171 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Punta Chame in Panama\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-688192\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Punta-Chame-Panama-2.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Punta Chame Beach Panama\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Punta-Chame-Panama-2.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Punta-Chame-Panama-2.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Punta-Chame-Panama-2.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Punta-Chame-Panama-2.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Punta-Chame-Panama-2.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Punta-Chame-Panama-2.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>This is a narrow, sandy and very picturesque peninsula on the Pacific coast! I was totally won over by the long, windswept white-sand beaches surrounded by sparkling turquoise waters, charming beachfront accommodation, unspoiled landscapes and a laid-back, breezy vibe!<\/p>\n<p>Stretching around 20 kilometers in length, it&#8217;s nestled in Panama Oeste Province in the southwestern part of the country and has world-class kitesurfing conditions.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>I drove 90 minutes from Panama City and stayed for a few days watching the kite-surfers, having an interesting kayaking experience in the nearby mangroves and relaxing at the cute local beachfront eateries!&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\"><b>Location: <\/b>Chame District, Panam\u00e1 Oeste Province<\/span><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Punta+Chame,+Panam%C3%A1+Oeste+Province,+Panama\/@8.6450922,-79.7203375,15z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x8facc1ab77f6d7cd:0xcfceeac13c475eb0!8m2!3d8.6433747!4d-79.7077343!16s%2Fg%2F1yw9kvq62?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Best time to visit:<\/strong> December to April (the dry season)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My personal highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Watching the kite-surfers at Punta Chame Beach and also from the comfort of the 4-star <a href=\"https:\/\/uk.hotels.com\/ho2955702272\/nitro-city-panama-action-sports-resort-punta-chame-panama\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Nitro City Resort<\/a> (which had an awesome view)!&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>17. Isla Grande<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-688241\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Isla-Grande-Panama.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Isla Grande Panama\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Isla-Grande-Panama.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Isla-Grande-Panama.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Isla-Grande-Panama.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Isla-Grande-Panama.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Isla-Grande-Panama.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Isla-Grande-Panama.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-688243\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Isla-Grande-Panama-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Isla Grande Panama\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Isla-Grande-Panama-1.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Isla-Grande-Panama-1.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Isla-Grande-Panama-1.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Isla-Grande-Panama-1.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Isla-Grande-Panama-1.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Isla-Grande-Panama-1.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>This is a vibrant island gem! I thought it was very attractive with glittering turquoise waters, dreamy palm-lined beaches, and colorful Afro-Caribbean houses.<\/p>\n<p>It&#8217;s located off the Caribbean coast in&nbsp;Col\u00f3n Province, near the town of Portobelo in the northern part of the country and I saw that it attracted snorkelers, scuba divers, backpackers and adventure seekers.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>I drove Panama City which took 3 hours and then it was just a 10 minute boat ride, I stayed for four days for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/pa\/ordovician-beach-resort.en-gb.html?aid=311076&amp;label=ordovician-beach-resort-OvMdmLRtfdMC5PDGKyRfLwS705954083666%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap1%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap%3Aneg%3Afi%3Atikwd-2356921468711%3Alp9046549%3Ali%3Adec%3Adm%3Appccp%3DUmFuZG9tSVYkc2RlIyh9YVcLb15uXY9d4aFGjQ5ByA0&amp;sid=548946cec11ce8170461ffa9b7f07f10&amp;age=1&amp;all_sr_blocks=1212489702_393523515_0_1_0&amp;checkin=2025-08-12&amp;checkout=2025-08-13&amp;dest_id=-162953&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;highlighted_blocks=1212489702_393523515_0_1_0&amp;hpos=1&amp;matching_block_id=1212489702_393523515_0_1_0&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;sr_pri_blocks=1212489702_393523515_0_1_0__55000&amp;srepoch=1754318743&amp;srpvid=42a367c958340145&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Ordovician Beach Resort<\/a> and spent it snorkeling, swimming, hiking to the El Faro lighthouse which had panoramic island views, and immersing myself in the lively Afro-Caribbean culture with its music, food, and colorful traditions!&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\"><b>Location: <\/b>Portobelo District, Col\u00f3n Province<\/span><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Isla+Larga\/@10.4876268,-67.9528211,16z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x8e804d819e8ebb65:0xa5652c6230c0413f!8m2!3d10.49098!4d-67.948637!16s%2Fg%2F121y0bk8?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Best time to visit: <\/strong>December to April (dry season)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Sipping on a Caipirinha cocktail at&nbsp;the fun <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tripadvisor.co.uk\/Attraction_Review-g1193072-d5582321-Reviews-The_OC_Bar_Lounge-Isla_Grande_Colon_Province.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The OC Bar &amp; Lounge<\/a> &#8211; I also was a big fan of the dreamy Caribbean Ocean views and the very welcoming brother and sister owners!&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>18. Panama Canal<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-688205\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Panama-Canal-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Panama Canal\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Panama-Canal-1.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Panama-Canal-1.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Panama-Canal-1.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Panama-Canal-1.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Panama-Canal-1.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Panama-Canal-1.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-688247\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Panama-Canal-2.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Panama Canal\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Panama-Canal-2.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Panama-Canal-2.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Panama-Canal-2.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Panama-Canal-2.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Panama-Canal-2.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Panama-Canal-2.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>This is regarded as one of the modern engineering wonders of the world! I hate to admit I was also in awe of it and it was great to see the huge Miraflores Locks and sprawling canal set against the lush tropical surroundings.<\/p>\n<p>It&#8217;s located in the central part of the country and connects the Atlantic Ocean (via the Caribbean Sea) to the Pacific Ocean, with key access points in Col\u00f3n on the Atlantic side and Panama City on the Pacific side. It&#8217;s stretches around 51-miles and it opened in 1914, handling over 14,000 ships annually.<\/p>\n<p>I observed the canal and ships from the northeast of Panama City, near the walls of the enormous seven-hundred-ton sluice gates at Miraflores Locks and then visited the interesting Panama Canal Museum in Casco Viejo, where I learnt all about it&#8217;s fascinating history!<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\"><b>Location: <\/b>runs from Col\u00f3n to Panama City<\/span><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Panama+Canal\/@9.143654,-80.0588713,10z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x8fab5f4b31cd492d:0xd9dd11e7a14a0960!8m2!3d9.1223491!4d-79.7311627!16zL20vMDY2cmw?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Best time to visit:<\/strong> all year round<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My personal highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Exploring the impressive four-story interactive <a href=\"https:\/\/visitcanaldepanama.com\/en\/points-of-interest\/miraflores-visitor-center\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Miraflores Visitor Center<\/a> &#8211; it was great way to learn about the canal&#8217;s interesting history as well as having a really close-up view of ships being raised and lowered over 85 feet when they passed through the locks!&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>After traveling around Panama for three months, I was lucky enough to uncover its most breathtaking spots &#8211; from cool surf resorts and hidden secret islands to quirky mountain retreats and incredible dive sites. I&#8217;ve listed my favorite places&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":778473,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":false,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2}},"categories":[1632,8],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-626852","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-beautifulplaces","category-south-america","generate-columns","tablet-grid-50","mobile-grid-100","grid-parent","grid-50"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/My-shot-of-Playa-Venao-views.jpg?fit=2048%2C1365&ssl=1","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/626852","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=626852"}],"version-history":[{"count":19,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/626852\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":778477,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/626852\/revisions\/778477"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/778473"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=626852"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=626852"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=626852"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}